Have the same problem with my 3GS. I did upgraded the OS, reset network settings. Nothing worked. I randomly lose my signal and then it comes back 1 min later. Very annoying.
Ya i need a win phone too to test my apps. But the Focus should work fine if you get it, i wouldn't worry about it. Rogers offers it. Just unlock it and you'll be fine. I have a coworker that got one from Rogers and paid to get it unlocked.